Clorazepate
Partial Epilepsies, Anxiety Disorders ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Benzodiazepine
Controlled Drug Substance
YES
clorazepate
Summary
Clorazepate is used to treat anxiety, which is a feeling of worry or fear, and certain types of seizures, which are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain. It helps calm the brain and nerves, reducing anxiety symptoms and preventing seizures.
Clorazepate works by enhancing the effects of GABA, which is a neurotransmitter that calms nerve activity in the brain. This action helps reduce anxiety and prevent seizures, making you feel more relaxed and less tense.
The usual starting dose for adults is 7.5 mg to 15 mg per day, taken in divided doses. The maximum recommended dose is 90 mg per day. It's taken orally, which means by mouth, and your doctor may adjust the dose based on your needs.
Common side effects of Clorazepate include drowsiness, which is feeling sleepy, dizziness, which is feeling lightheaded, and dry mouth. These effects can vary in severity and may affect your ability to perform tasks that require alertness.
Clorazepate can cause drowsiness and should not be mixed with alcohol, which can increase its sedative effects. It's not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. People with severe liver disease or allergies to Clorazepate should avoid it. Always follow your doctor's instructions and report any concerning symptoms.
Indications and Purpose
How does Clorazepate work?
Clorazepate works by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called GABA, which is a chemical in the brain that helps calm nerve activity. Think of it like turning down the volume on a loud radio. By increasing GABA's effects, Clorazepate reduces anxiety and prevents seizures. This calming effect helps people feel more relaxed and less anxious. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions and attend regular check-ups to monitor your progress while taking Clorazepate.
Is Clorazepate effective?
Clorazepate is effective for treating anxiety and certain types of seizures. It works by calming the brain and nerves, which helps reduce anxiety symptoms. Clinical studies support its effectiveness in managing these conditions. However, individual responses can vary. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions and attend regular check-ups to monitor your progress. If you have concerns about the effectiveness of Clorazepate, discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can adjust your treatment plan if needed.
What is Clorazepate?
Clorazepate is a medication used to treat anxiety and certain types of seizures. It belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines, which work by calming the brain and nerves. This helps reduce anxiety symptoms and prevent seizures. Clorazepate is also used as a complementary addition to other therapies for these conditions. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions and attend regular check-ups to monitor your progress. If you have questions about Clorazepate, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Clorazepate?
Clorazepate is usually used for short-term treatment of anxiety or acute symptoms. The duration of use depends on your condition and response to treatment. Your doctor will determine how long you should take Clorazepate based on your specific needs. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions and not stop taking the medication suddenly. If you have concerns about the duration of your treatment, discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on safely managing your condition.
How do I dispose of Clorazepate?
To dispose of Clorazepate, take it to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of it properly to prevent harm to people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw it in the trash at home. First, remove it from its original container, mix it with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away. Always keep medications out of reach of children and pets.
How do I take Clorazepate?
Take Clorazepate as prescribed by your doctor. It's usually taken 1 to 3 times daily, depending on your condition. You can take it with or without food. If you have trouble swallowing pills, ask your doctor if it can be crushed. Avoid alcohol while taking Clorazepate, as it can increase drowsiness. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's close to your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose. Never double up on doses. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.
How long does it take for Clorazepate to start working?
Clorazepate starts working within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it. The full therapeutic effect may take a few days to become noticeable, especially for anxiety. Individual factors like age, weight, and overall health can affect how quickly Clorazepate works. It's important to take it exactly as prescribed for the best results. If you have concerns about how long it takes for Clorazepate to work, discuss them with your doctor. They can provide guidance based on your specific situation.
How should I store Clorazepate?
Store Clorazepate at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Avoid storing it in humid places like bathrooms, as moisture can affect its effectiveness. If your medication came in packaging that isn't child-resistant, transfer it to a container that children can't easily open. Always store Clorazepate out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion. Check the expiration date regularly and dispose of any unused or expired medication properly.
What is the usual dose of Clorazepate?
The usual starting dose of Clorazepate for adults is 7.5 mg to 15 mg per day, taken in divided doses. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response and needs. The maximum recommended dose is 90 mg per day. For elderly patients, a lower starting dose may be used due to increased sensitivity. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions. Do not adjust your dose without consulting your healthcare provider, as this can affect the effectiveness and safety of the treatment.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Clorazepate be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Clorazepate is not recommended while breastfeeding. Limited information is available on whether it passes into breast milk, but it may pose risks to the nursing infant. The effects on milk supply are also unknown. If you're breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options. They can help you choose a treatment that allows you to nurse your baby safely. Always inform your healthcare provider about your breastfeeding status when discussing medication use.
Can Clorazepate be taken safely while pregnant?
Clorazepate is not recommended during pregnancy. Limited evidence is available on its safety, but it may pose risks to the developing baby. Animal studies suggest potential harm, and human data is lacking. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss your treatment options with your doctor. They can help create a plan that ensures the safety of both you and your baby. Always inform your healthcare provider about your pregnancy status when discussing medication use.
Can I take Clorazepate with other prescription drugs?
Clorazepate can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of adverse effects. Major interactions include other sedatives, which can enhance drowsiness and dizziness. Moderate interactions include certain antidepressants and antipsychotics, which can affect how Clorazepate works. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking to prevent interactions. They can adjust your treatment plan to ensure safety and effectiveness. Regular communication with your healthcare provider is important to manage potential drug interactions.
Does Clorazepate have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Clorazepate can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion, which are common adverse effects. These effects can vary in frequency and severity. Serious side effects include mood changes, difficulty breathing, or severe allergic reactions. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. They can help determine if these effects are related to Clorazepate and suggest appropriate actions. Always report any adverse effects to your healthcare provider for proper management.
Does Clorazepate have any safety warnings?
Yes, Clorazepate has important safety warnings. It can cause drowsiness, which may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcohol, as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Clorazepate can be habit-forming, so use it exactly as prescribed. Do not stop taking it suddenly, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms. If you experience unusual mood changes, confusion, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical help immediately. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any concerning symptoms.
Is Clorazepate addictive?
Yes, Clorazepate can be addictive. It has the potential to cause physical and psychological dependence, especially with long-term use. Dependence means you might feel a strong need to keep taking the medication, even if it's not needed. To prevent addiction, use Clorazepate exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Avoid increasing the dose or frequency without medical advice. If you have concerns about dependence, discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can help manage your treatment safely.
Is Clorazepate safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals are more vulnerable to the safety risks of Clorazepate. They may experience increased drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion, which can lead to falls or injuries. Clorazepate should be used with caution in the elderly, often at lower doses. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is important to ensure safety and effectiveness. If you or a loved one is elderly and taking Clorazepate, discuss any concerns with your doctor. They can adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Clorazepate?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Clorazepate. Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of Clorazepate, leading to increased drowsiness and dizziness. This combination can impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving. If you choose to drink occasionally, limit your alcohol intake and be aware of any increased side effects. Always talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking Clorazepate to get personalized advice based on your specific health situation.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Clorazepate?
You can exercise while taking Clorazepate, but be mindful of its effects. Clorazepate can cause drowsiness and dizziness, which might affect your balance and coordination during physical activity. To exercise safely, start with light activities and see how your body responds. Avoid strenuous activities or high-impact sports until you know how Clorazepate affects you. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, stop exercising and rest. Always consult your doctor if you have concerns about exercising while on this medication.
Is it safe to stop Clorazepate?
It's not safe to stop Clorazepate suddenly. Doing so can cause withdrawal symptoms, which are unpleasant physical or mental effects that occur when stopping a medication. These symptoms can include anxiety, insomnia, and irritability. Clorazepate is usually used for short-term relief of anxiety or acute conditions. If you need to stop taking it, your doctor will guide you on how to gradually reduce the dose to minimize withdrawal effects. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication.
What are the most common side effects of Clorazepate?
Side effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common side effects of Clorazepate include drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. These effects can vary from person to person. If you experience these symptoms, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. It's important to talk with your doctor if you notice new symptoms. They can help determine if the side effects are related to Clorazepate and provide guidance on managing them. Always consult your healthcare provider before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking Clorazepate?
Clorazepate should not be used if you have a known allergy to it or its ingredients. This is an absolute contraindication, meaning the drug must not be used due to severe risks. Relative contraindications include severe liver disease, which requires caution and may be used only if benefits outweigh risks. Always inform your doctor about your medical history and any other medications you are taking. This helps ensure Clorazepate is safe and effective for you.
